The Washington College of Law has one of the finest Clinical Programs in the country consistently ranked among the top ten in the nation by U.S. News and World Report. The clinics provide second- and third-year students the opportunity to work as lawyers, taking full responsibility for litigation under the tutelage of faculty members. Students prepare witnesses, investigate facts, and present evidence before judicial and administrative bodies. The International Human Rights Clinic often undertakes cases involving environmental issues.
Recent Human Rights Clinic cases have involved international environmental law issues in Iceland and indigenous peoples' land rights in Central America. The seminar meets once each week for two hours, followed by one hour of "case rounds," for a total of three hours of class each week. The course focuses on lawyering skills, ethical issues and preparation for the practice of law. Teaching methods are active and student-focused and include extensive use of simulation and role-playing exercises. In addition, some time is devoted to the doctrine of asylum, international law and the organization and function of international human rights mechanisms. Students meet at least bi-weekly with their supervising attorney to discuss their cases.
For more information visit the International Human Rights Clinic.
